Taman Negara Adventure Tour

Date : 14 - 16 December 2011

Venue : Taman Negara, Pahang, Malaysia

No expectations. That was the mindset of 33 Dip IHTM, BA IHTM and Dip PCT students, who were about to embark on a 3 day 2 night trip to Taman Negara, Pahang, accompanied by 3 lecturers. As most of the students were new to exploring the wilderness and outdoor adventures, this trip took them by surprise, as they did not expect nature to provide such an above average degree of enjoyment.

One of the highlights of the trip was the night jungle walk, where students were led by experienced 'orang asli' guides into the jungle carrying only a torch to light their way in pitch darkness. There they discovered an array of insects and rare species of flora, some of which were luminous and glowed in the dark. There was also a 'sambar deer' sighting, a shy species of which appears only at night to graze in the open field.

Another highlight of the trip was crossing the canopy walkway, a 45 meter high suspension bridge spanning 510 meters overlooking the lush greenery of the forest. Students were cautious yet excited at the same time when crossing the walkway. The height and swaying motion of the bridge added to the exhilaration of the experience. Students were required to cross this bridge en route up to Bukit Terisik, a 344 meter hill, which took an exhausting hour an a half hike to reach its peak.

Students had the most fun during Rapids Shooting, a splashing-ly fun activity of riding in a speeding motorized 'sampan' and getting drenched from splashing water in Tahan River. Students then bathed in the river and relaxed by the river banks.

The tranquil and peaceful environment opened up their eyes to the richness and complexities of the natural ecosystem, and why it is so important to preserve it and be left in its natural state. This trip deepened their understanding about ecotourism and its contributions to the local and national economy. Students were also briefed about the different authorities and NGOs, and their efforts to promote ecotourism.

This trip also deepened their appreciation of nature's gifts and developed an awareness of ecotourism and local culture. SHTCA would like to thank the local and 'orang asli' tour guides who made this trip a memorable one.